Robbie Deans lists Australian side to take on Russia – 2011 Rugby World Cup News
Australia’s head coach, Robbie Deans, has named a young looking side to play their final group match of the ongoing Rugby World Cup 2011 against Russia on October 1, in Trafalgar Park, Nelson. The new look of the team is due to the fact that at least five
front-line players will miss the contest due to various injuries. This has forced Deans to include a few inexperienced players in his 22-member squad. Announcing his new combination for match day, Deans told the media on September 29 that they now require
a creative effort to bring some change in the game.
Wallabies’ players including Digby Ioane, Kurtley Beale and Anthony Faingaa will not be seen in action due to injuries. Ioane will miss the clash with a broken thumb, Beale will not be able play due to a hamstring and Faingaa is struggling with a concussion.
Among the other worries for the Wallabies is Pat McCabe, who sustained a shoulder injury which is still not healed and Rob Horne is in immense pain from an injury to his cheek. The large injuries before the start of the knock out stages are something alarming
for Australia.
The injury list has made the Wallabies’ coach include some young players in his team. Berrick Barnes is given the first opportunity to make his appearance in a global event. Luke Burgess is also promoted to the starting role in place of experienced Will
Genia.
Wallabies have also have good news as a couple of their player including David Pocock and Scott Higginbotham are recovered and ready to play.
Robbie Deans told the media about their future plans and said that, “We've had to be a bit creative but it's never been about the number on their back. While some of them might be out of their normal positions, they won't let us down and will enjoy the opportunity.”
Wallabies’ squad for Russian encounter:
Australia: 15 James O'Connor, 14 Radike Samo, 13 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 12 Berrick Barnes, 11 Drew Mitchell, 10 Quade Cooper, 9 Luke Burgess, 8 Ben McCalman, 7 David Pocock, 6 Scott Higginbotham, 5 Nathan Sharpe, 4 James Horwill (captain),
3 Sekope Kepu, 2 Stephen Moore, 1 James Slipper
Replacements: 16 Tatafu Polota Nau, 17 Saia Fainga'a, 18 Salesi Ma'afu, 19 Rob Simmons, 20 Rocky Elsom, 21 Will Genia, 22 Nick Phipps
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